Best Things to Do in Sorrento, Italy: Eat, Explore, Enjoy

We've put together the best of everything, from lemon groves and boat rides to secret alleyways and short day trips. Every year, more than 3 million people visit Sorrento, which only has about 15,000 residents. This shows how popular the town is as a small yet busy place to visit.

Unique things to do in Sorrento-what to do in Sorrento, Italy

Marina Grande

Marina Grande is a traditional fishing harbor renowned for its pastel-colored houses, waterfront seafood restaurants, and stunning scenic views of Mount Vesuvius. Tucked in a quiet bay, it still feels like a working fishing village. Locals come for fresh fish, while travelers enjoy leisurely lunches by the sea and take in the photo-worthy sunsets. It’s ideal for those seeking authentic coastal charm close to the city center.

[Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for fewer crowds and the best golden-hour photos.]

Piazza Tasso and Piazza Lauro

Piazza Tasso is the vibrant heart of Sorrento, filled with charming cafés, unique boutique shops, and the joyful buzz of everyday life. Named after the poet Torquato Tasso, it’s a popular meeting spot and a natural place to start your walking tour of Sorrento. A short walk away, Piazza Lauro is quieter, lined with benches and trees, making it a peaceful alternative to its busy neighbor.

Cloister of San Francesco

Located near Villa Comunale Park, the 14th-century Cloister of San Francesco is one of the most peaceful places in Sorrento. The stone archways and shady courtyard garden create a perfect pause from the city’s hustle. Events like string quartets and small art exhibitions are often held here, enhancing its role as both a historical and cultural site.

Museo Correale di Terranova

A significant collection of art and antiquities from the 15th to the 19th centuries is on display at the prestigious Museo Correale di Terranova in Sorrento, housed in an 18th-century villa. Citrus groves surround the villa's tranquil garden, which leads to a Belvedere terrace with expansive views of the Gulf of Naples.

Capri

Famous for its dramatic cliffs, clear waters, and elegant atmosphere, Capri is a beautiful island in the Bay of Naples. Well-known for its iconic locations, such as the Blue Grotto and the Piazzetta, Capri combines historic sites, upscale shopping, and natural beauty. In addition to boat rides around the island, visitors may explore lush gardens and ancient ruins. 

Cooking classes in Sorrento

I joined a cooking class in a lemon grove and made gnocchi and tiramisu from scratch. The hosts were welcoming, and the setting felt like a local family gathering. It’s a flavorful, hands-on way to experience Sorrento’s food culture. 

Villa Comunale di Sorrento

A peaceful public park on a cliffside terrace, Villa Comunale di Sorrento offers panoramic views of Mount Vesuvius, the Gulf of Naples, and the islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida. It features a small archaeological museum displaying Roman-era artifacts and marble busts of local figures. 

Bagni della Regina Giovanna

Giovanna on the Capo di Sorrento, Bagni della Regina Giovanna is a beautiful natural lagoon set among limestone cliffs. It's accessible from town by a scenic walk of 10 to 20 minutes. This untouched Amalfi Coast gem is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or cliff-jumping into the clear waters.

Food tours in Sorrento

One of the best ways to experience Sorrento's culinary tradition is through a food tour. Sample dishes like gnocchi alla sorrentina, fresh seafood, and the town's famous limoncello. Tours often include visits to local markets and family-run restaurants, offering a flavorful journey through Southern Italy. Nearly 600,000 visitors arrived in August alone, reflecting Sorrento’s incredible popularity during the vibrant peak season.

Source: TTG

Best tours in Sorrento-top experiences in Sorrento

Capri day tour from Sorrento

Take the morning ferry to Capri for quieter views and a refreshing sea breeze. The boat ride around the cliffs and the Blue Grotto is unforgettable. I loved relaxing in the Pizzetta with a coffee before exploring the island. It was an unforgettable tour for my whole family.

Amalfi Coast day trip

This tour visits Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, offering one of the most scenic coastal routes in the world. With dramatic cliffside roads and charming villages, this tour provides a full day of culture, beauty, and coastal discovery. You can also enjoy a scenic day trip from Rome to Sorrento, Positano, and the Amalfi Coast for a memorable coastal journey.

Tour Pompeii or Herculaneum

Discover the fascinating ancient Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, remarkably preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. From haunting ruins to detailed mosaics and frescoes, these sites offer a look into ancient life. Some tours from Sorrento also include a visit to Mount Vesuvius for panoramic views.

Tips for top activities in Sorrento

• Popular Tours: Book Capri, Amalfi Coast, and Pompeii tours in advance, especially in peak seasons.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Sorrento’s cobbled paths and ruins require good footwear.
• Go to Capri Early: Take the earliest ferry for a peaceful start and fewer crowds.
• Best time to visit: For nice weather and fewer tourists, go between April and June or September and early October.
• Use the Lift from Villa Comunale: An easy option for reaching Marina Piccola, especially in hot weather.
• Try Local Specialties: Don’t miss Sorrento’s seafood, gnocchi, and citrus desserts paired with limoncello.

Conclusion

Sorrento has everything you could want, whether you're looking for romantic locations, family-friendly attractions, or delicious food. This quaint town is the ideal starting point for exploring Southern Italy, offering a range of experiences that include magnificent coastline excursions, Italian cuisine, ancient landmarks, and lemon-scented alleyways.

Make your trip one to remember by booking your experiences and trips with Dream Tourism and realizing your Italian dream.